The financial services industry plays a major role in the economy. It allows for the free flow of capital and liquidity, allowing businesses of all sizes to operate with ease. A healthy financial sector can boost a nation’s economy and increase the purchasing power of consumers. Financial services are also important for a country’s citizens, providing them with security and peace of mind.
The various types of financial services are as diverse as the businesses that offer them. While many people know about banks, insurance companies and credit card providers, there are many other types of financial services. For example, there are debt resolution services, payment service providers (such as Visa and MasterCard), mortgage brokers, and even global exchanges that facilitate stock, commodity and currency trades.
Each of these subsectors have different roles and requirements, but they all revolve around money management. If you’re interested in a career in the finance industry, understanding how each works can help you determine what type of job you want.
Banks: The core function of a financial institution is to collect money from depositors, pool it and then lend it to individuals who need funds. They also provide investment advisory services. Banks are important because they provide a central location for individuals to store their funds and access them when needed.
Insurance: This is an essential aspect of the financial services industry, offering a safety net for individuals and families in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Some of the most common forms of insurance include health, life, car and home insurance. In addition, there are other types of insurance that cover risk and liability.
Investment Advisors: This is a broad category that includes financial advisers, pension fund administrators, wealth managers and others. These professionals are responsible for managing customers’ assets by investing their money in a wide range of financial instruments, including real estate, commodities, loans, stocks and mutual funds.
Depository Organizations: This includes banks, building societies and mortgage banks and companies; credit unions and credit cooperatives; and other entities that are engaged in financial intermediation, such as securitizers and investment firms. This group is critical because it provides the capital that businesses need to start operations, invest in growth opportunities and manage their cash flow.
The state of a country’s financial services sector is indicative of its overall economic health. A strong sector can encourage consumer spending and lead to increased business for companies of all sizes. However, a weak sector can cause the economy to slow down and may even lead to a recession or depression. When the financial sector begins to falter, it typically results in a drying up of capital and reduced employment, which can lead to decreased spending by individuals. The collapse of the subprime mortgage market triggered this recent collapse and the subsequent Great Recession. Fortunately, the market is rebounding and there are signs of hope for the future.